Hong Myung-bo's team shows frustrating performance, draws 0-0 with South Africa in first half

The South Korean U-23 men's national football team faced a frustrating first half in their 2026 World Cup qualifier against South Africa, ending the period in a scoreless draw. Despite the crucial nature of the match, where a win would secure advancement to the next round, the team's performance lacked sharpness and struggled to break down the South African defense.

While South Korea dominated possession with 61% in the first half, the initiative was largely seized by South Africa. The African team created more scoring opportunities, registering 10 shots to South Korea's four, with three on target compared to Korea's one. South Africa's quick transitions and runs into the space behind the Korean defense posed significant threats, forcing the Korean backline into frequent clearances.

South Korea's midfield struggled to maintain possession and build attacks effectively, with passes often intercepted by the South African team. This led to a reliance on backward passes as players found few viable options forward. Even attempts to involve key players like Lee Kang-in deeper in the play to facilitate ball circulation yielded little improvement. The team was fortunate to avoid conceding, thanks to timely defensive interventions and saves from goalkeeper Kim Seung-gyu.

The team's inability to convert possession into meaningful chances highlighted offensive struggles. The performance contrasted sharply with expectations for a match that could secure qualification. The team will need a significant improvement in the second half to overcome their offensive woes and secure their place in the next stage of the World Cup qualifiers.